Marblehead went to the dogs this past Sunday, in the best way possible.
The Marblehead Festival of Arts debuted its first-ever Pup Party, drawing more than 100 dogs and their enthusiastic owners for a morning of sunshine, snuggles, and celebration.
Held on the grounds of Reynolds Playground, the inaugural event was a tail-wagging extravaganza, featuring a dog-friendly splash zone, pup cups, costume contests, and giveaways, plus music by DJ Lanzz (@dj.lanzz on TikTok) that kept tails tapping all morning.
“This is such a fun event. There’s no better place to be,” said one attendee while treating their pup, Milo, to a frozen beef cube and a quick romp through the bubble zone.
Dogs dashed through the ball pit, bobbed for treats, and cooled off in the splash pad while their humans browsed booths run by beloved local vendors including Wags’n Whiskers, Worldly Pets, Marblehead Mutts, and Pawsitively Marblehead.
Local dog trainer Rocco also drew a crowd, offering tips and highlighting his work with Missing Dogs Massachusetts. “We get more calls during the Fourth of July weekend than nearly any other time of the year,” Rocco said. “This was a great chance to raise awareness and make sure folks know what to do if their dog goes missing.”
According to recent findings from more than 200,000 missing pet reports collected by PetRadar, pet disappearances nearly double in summer compared to winter. The data highlights a seasonal spike that is especially relevant for local families as the weather warms up and routines change.
Among the more heartfelt attractions was All Paws on Deck, a Marblehead grooming salon whose team handed out chalk-dye dog makeovers, hosted face painting for kids, and raffled off items to raise funds for the Marblehead Animal Shelter. “It’s just amazing to reconnect with our clients and the community in a space like this,” said staff member Kate Peever.
Not to be outdone, Kona — a veteran’s service-dog-in-training — won hearts with her handler Kate Van Auken, who shared the mission of their program Company 2 Heroes that pairs veterans with dogs they help train themselves. “It gives them purpose,” Van Auken said. “They get a four-legged battle buddy.”
Over at another booth, Penny Raynor reminded attendees that the town’s official dog park, once shuttered during the pandemic, is open again and in need of community support. “We’re trying to raise money to improve the surface,” she said while selling T-shirts and collecting donations.
The crowd favorite, however, might have been the costume contest. Dogs dressed as hot dogs, pirates, and superheroes trotted across the lawn while spectators cheered and snapped photos.
The Pup Party was free for humans and $20 per furry friend, with proceeds going toward community animal initiatives. Admission was capped at 150 dog-friendly dogs, and each owner was required to sign a waiver upon entry.
“Whether you came with a dog or just came to smile at one, this was one of the most joyful events of the summer,” said a festival-goer as her golden retriever proudly carried home a paw-engraved tag and a goodie bag.
With a mix of community love, creative flair, and canine chaos, Marblehead’s first Pup Party proved it’s not just a festival for the arts — it’s one for the dogs too.
